Recently published in the February 2014 issue of The Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal, Dr. Hunter Moyer co-authored a study titled “The Effect of Radiation on Acellular Dermal Matrix and Capsule Formation in Breast Reconstruction.” Alongside Drs. Pinell-White and Losken, also from Atlanta, Dr. Moyer investigated acellular dermal matrix technology and patient safety for breast reconstruction. Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) are engineered materials that imitate and substitute for a patient’s tissue when there is an inadequate amount of healthy tissue available.

As a board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Moyer frequently conducts research and participates in studies relating to implant technology and surgical techniques. He is committed to advancing the field of plastic surgery as well as maximizing safety for his patients.

Dr. Moyer’s study primarily focuses on ADMs’ effects on patients who underwent breast reconstruction with implants. ADMs are commonly used for support during breast surgery, specifically reconstruction because of the ease of use and numerous benefits. As an engineered material, cellular ingrowth and tissue integration are important for transforming the material to biologic tissue. Results conclude that ADMs appear to limit the degeneration of skin elasticity and inflammation that can occur with radiation.

For more information on a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure or to schedule a consultation, contact us today. Also, connect with Dr. Moyer on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for more plastic surgery updates and the latest news articles.

Earlier this year in March 2013, Atlanta plastic surgeon Dr. Hunter Moyer performed the first free tissue transfer surgery ever at Northside-Forsyth Hospital. Free tissue transfer, a technique in reconstructive plastic surgery, is a procedure that relocates healthy tissue to repair another area of the body. Dr. Moyer performs free tissue transfers to address injuries caused by trauma, severe burns, or cancer removal. While this is a highly complex procedure, free tissue transfer surgery is a possible option for breast reconstruction and cosmetic surgery at both Northside hospitals in Atlanta and Forsyth County.

Free tissue transfer harvests healthy skin, fat, muscle, or bone in the form of a flap that is transferred from the donor site to another site. Along with the tissue, blood supply is transferred so arteries and veins are also transferred and reconnected to vessels at the receiving site using a surgical microscope. Dr. Moyer examines areas requiring a tissue flap as well as the areas where tissue may be safely harvested. By using materials from the patient’s own body, the risk of infection and post-operative risks are significantly reduced. Tissue transfers can provide natural-looking plastic & reconstructive surgery results and resolve a range of conditions and injuries.

This procedure is commonly used in a number of reconstructive treatments including facial and breast reconstruction. Dr. Moyer performs breast reconstruction surgery with various tissue flap techniques including the TRAM flap (transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous), a reconstructive technique refined at Atlanta Plastic Surgery, P.C. In addition to tissue flaps, patients can also choose breast reconstruction with implants. Dr. Moyer surgically inserts saline or silicone implants to restore the breast mound.

For more information on reconstructive or cosmetic procedures that Dr. Moyer performs, contact us to schedule your consultation. For more news and updates on plastic surgery, follow Dr. Moyer on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.